Once the fall season arrives, we know it’s time for cool, crisp air, the trees to change color and pumpkin spice everything. Then, we start to notice storms picking up and the outdoor temperatures getting colder—winter has made its entrance. The fall and winter months take the cake for dropping the most chilly weather, but while the cold is perfect for winter activities, what it’s not great for is your eyes. So, whether you’re staying inside this winter or planning a trip out into the snow, remember that your eye doctor in Lancaster, OH would want you to take precautions to maintain good eye health.

With that in mind, here are a few simple ways to protect your eyes from the cold weather:

Use eye drops: You may use eye drops during the spring months to keep itchy allergy eyes at bay, but the cold weather is also a trigger for irritated eyes. Typically occurring in naturally drier climates or areas experiencing still air, the cold of winter can pull all the moisture from the air, causing eye itchiness and irritation. This winter, don’t scratch or rub! Keep eye drops handy to soothe dry eyes anytime you need relief.

Block the wind: Hot or cold, any wind slamming into your eyes is unpleasant and potentially damaging to delicate eye tissues. And it’s not just the wind that can you’re your eyes. Sudden gusts of wind from storms and air pressure changes can kick up dirt, dust and any debris light enough to get blown around at eye level. If this is the case, the surfaces of your eyes are at risk of getting scratched.

Wear sunglasses: Yes, the sun is still out during the fall and winter months, which means you shouldn’t put those sunglasses away just yet. In fact, the winter sun can shine just as bright as the summer sun, temporarily blinding you and causing potential damage to your eyes. It’s important to know that ultraviolet rays are likely to come through clouds, even on the cloudiest days. This means UV rays can bounce off fresh snow and reflect back into your eyes. Continue to wear sunglasses with UV protection this winter.

Make indoor air healthy: If you suffer from dry, irritated eyes while indoors, then you need to take measures to bring some moisture inside, as well as remove any unhealthy airborne particles that may be getting into your eyes. Good thing there are a few things you can do to your living space to alleviate the discomfort so you can stop rubbing your eyes all the time. First, consider investing in a home or room humidifier to help moisturize your eyes and skin. You should also change your HVAC system’s air filter, or even upgrade to a filter that captures more air pollutants, like mold, dust, pollen, pet dander and bacteria.

When you need an eye exam, prescription glasses or other services for a vision or eye problem, it’s important that you see an eye doctor in Lancaster, OH as soon as possible. Luckily for you, the team at Price Family Eye Care Professionals LLC is here to help. Contact us today!